Lording Authority Over Others

Some denominations utilize a vote of confidence to show that the majority continue to support those in leadership — preachers, elders and deacons. My congregation does not have such a tool in their tool box. I just learned that one of the elders, who was not only instrumental in starting the church, but also served as pastor for a number of years, resigned from his elder position. The resignation took place some months ago; however, the congregation has not been notified. Rather than serving the membership, the lack of transparency from the leadership is self-serving, has the appearance of lording authority over others and smacks of worldly manipulation. When a dispute arose with the 12 disciples on who was the greatest, Jesus said, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves” (Luke 22:27 NIV).